During Ramadan, the police attacked Birmingham stalls

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By Peter Wilson and Maisie Olah, BBC Midlands Today

44 minutes ago

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Police said residents had complained of increased litter and noise since the illegal trade

Officers said bottles were thrown at police during an operation to eliminate illegal street stalls during Ramadan.

The incident happened at 01:30 BST on Sunday as a large crowd had gathered in Small Heath, Birmingham.

Police said the operation, along with commercial standards officers, followed complaints from residents of road closures and anti-social behaviour.

West Midlands Police said an officer sustained minor injuries.

She added that numerous reports of criminal damage after other rockets were being fired were being investigated.

The late night market has its origins along Coventry Road and Ladypool Road during the holy month of Ramadan when Muslims break their fast at sunset.

Det Ch Insp David Sproson said it was “totally unacceptable” that officers who were there “to make the community a safer and better place, were met with such hostility”.

A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said in a statement: “We want people observing the holy month of Ramadan to enjoy the festivities, and we want to ensure this is done safely and within the law for the benefit of the whole community.

“What happened was completely unacceptable – the officers were simply doing their job as part of this joint operation, which was organized in response to local concerns.”

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Stalls selling clothes, perfumes and food were set up on Coventry Street and Ladypool Road in Small Heath

While some people described scenes of chaos on Coventry Road to the BBC last week, others have called for the area to be made pedestrianized during Ramadan, saying the kiosks could be a good addition if managed better.

In addition to the litter and crowding, community activist Naveed Sadiq said there were complaints of loud noises in the early hours.

“Spirit of Ramadan”

“We need to sit down with the council and the police to see if we can make this an official event, organize it and make it attractive,” said Mr Sadiq of the Bearded Broz.

He added that organizing the kiosks may also lead to a better example of the “true spirit of Ramadan” rather than the negative experience this year.

He said, “The Prophet Muhammad came to show us good character, and it is very important that we continue this good character.”

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Naveed Sadiq said he wanted the market stalls during Ramadan to be a solemn event

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